A former busker who won Britain’s Got Talent with his band will use the money to pay off his mum’s mortgage.

Richard Hadfield, 20, a labourer from Portslade, will share the £250,000 prize with his four band-mates.

Five-piece Collabro beat opera singer Lucy Kay who was the runner-up and teenage rap duo Bars and Melody, the bookies’ favourites, who finished third.

They will perform at the Royal Variety Performance as part of the prize.

The band comprise Mr Hadfield and Matt Pagan, both 20, Michael Auger and Thomas Redgrave, both 24, and Jamie Lambert, 23.

Speaking yesterday following the win, Mr Hadfield said: “It’s incredible, I just can’t believe it.

“Now my first priority is to use the money to pay off my mum’s mortgage.

“It’s great that we have fans around the world. Our fans are fantastic and they have got us to where we are.”

The group, who formed only a month before their first audition for the show, had all four judges on their feet following their final performance of Stars from Les Miserables.

Head judge Simon Cowell said: "You know what I like about you guys is that you have steel in your eyes when you sing. You are totally focused, you know exactly the kind of group you want to be.

"The first time I heard that song it was fantastic. This was even better. This was a step up. This was a performance where I could tell you wanted to stamp on this competition and win the competition, and I like people who want to be winners."

Comedian David Walliams said: "It was wonderful. You couldn't fault it. It was perfection. I see really, really big things for you guys."

Alesha Dixon added: "I could feel that passion from you. I loved it."

Other finalists included dance troupe Addict Initiative, impressionist Jon Clegg, high-heeled dance trio Yanis Marshall, Arnaud and Mehdi, singing guitarist James Smith, swing group Jack Pack and illusionist Darcy Oakewere.

Mr, Hadfield featured in The Argus back in 2010 after earning his school fees for Hurstpierpoint College by busking in Brighton and Hove in the school holidays.

He was also spotted singing in George Street just last month.

He added: “It has been absolutely fantastic, all the acts are just so lovely as well we have all got on. Everyone wants everyone else to do well.”